Hot Cocoa from Alton Brown

Even with this heat wave (predicted to be almost 60 today!), these next few days will be perfect for watching football and Christmas movies with family and friends. I was casting about for a good hot cocoa recipe and found a Food Network oldie from Alton Brown. This makes a dry mix suitable for storing in a tall bale jar or canister or giving away in little packages. Just mix it with hot water (although you can use milk) and add a peppermint marshmallow. A good shot of Bailey's really does it justice. Makes 5.5 cups of mix -- enough for 8-10 cups of cocoa. And don't leave out that cayenne kick! Perfect for giving it that little unidentifiable something. It makes all the difference!

Spicy Winter Hot Chocolate

2.5 cups powdered milk
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch process preferred, I used the Special Dark/Dutch. This is a perfect way to use it up since it didn't work for the last batch of brownies.)

2 tsps cornstarch

1 tsp salt

1 pinch cayenne pepper or more to taste

He says to fill mug half full of mix. In a large mug, I found three heaping tablespoons was plenty. Add hot water and stir.